Kirby Dach’s last NHL game was almost a year ago.
Now he’s back at 100%… but we’ll have to give him time to get back to his game.
Dach played on a line with Alex Newhook and Patrik Laine yesterday and today in intra-squad games, and the popular observation is that, while Dach is physically fit, he’s clearly missing a step in his execution and decision-making.
That said, one wonders when Dach will be ready to play like the Dach we saw during the 22-23 season, and at this level, Bruno Gervais believes we’ll have to wait until January.
It takes time.
Even if a player trains hard, it can take a few months before he’s back in top form on the ice. – Bruno Gervais
Bruno Gervais, speaking on TSN 690, wants to see Dach hit the ground running, so that he gains confidence and doesn’t have to worry about injuries when he returns:
Gervais: Give Dach till January to get his game back https://t.co/RcSf2rYW1i
– TSN 690 Montreal (@TSN690) September 20, 2024
I can’t wait to see if he can have the same impact when he’s comfortable on the ice.
Because let’s not forget one thing: before the start of last season, it was said that Dach had the potential to steal Nick Suzuki’s chair on the center of the first line.
Kirby has the skills to make it happen, but he’s been slowed down by injuries since his arrival in the National League.
He’s not lucky, and we’re seeing it again during training camp:
Another scare for Kirby Dach (blow to the face).
That’s two in as many days… Maybe bad luck will stop coming his way at some point @DLCoulisses pic.twitter.com/dlH67j0f33
– Marc-Olivier Cook (@Cook_Marco) September 20, 2024
That’s the most important thing, honestly. Because if he’s fit and gets his game back, he’ll be able to help the Habs on a regular basis.
Maybe that’s what the Habs lacked last season…
Overtime
– Interested parties:
Until November 6, play in the @IGAQC app daily for the chance to win instant prizes!
Details and prizes ↓ #GoHabsGo
– Montreal Canadiens (@CanadiensMTL) September 20, 2024
– Done deal.
Done deal.
The @NJDevils have signed Dawson Mercer to a three-year contract. pic.twitter.com/MgNDyHNqkS
– NHL (@NHL) September 20, 2024
– Whew. Go for it!
Five-star talents. How are you going to rank them? pic.twitter.com/hlhBq6Knjz
– NHL (@NHL) September 20, 2024